Visionary designer Santia Mckoy of S&M Design proudly presents The Forty Collection, a celebration of artistry, innovation and life marking Santia’s 40th birthday.
Imagine the power of a single letter, penned by a fourteen year-old dreamer in Haiti named Santia McKoy, containing the key to her future self. This letter, brimming with hope and determination, would become the catalyst for an extraordinary journey. Her vision, once confined to the pages of that letter, began to materialize as doors of opportunity swung open. With unwavering resolve, Santia pursued her dreams, overcoming countless obstacles and defying expectations. Her story became a beacon of inspiration, igniting a flame of possibility in the hearts of other young dreamers. As she grew, so did her impact, transforming not only her own life but also the lives of those around her.
This prophetic message, a beacon of hope and possibility, ignited a spark that would burn for twenty-six years, culminating in the extraordinary Forty Collection. As Designer marks her milestone birthday, she’s not just celebrating another year – she’s embracing the fulfillment of a lifelong vision. “Turning 40 is a milestone, and to celebrate, I’ve crafted something truly special.”
From the vibrant streets of Haiti to the dazzling world of fashion, Santia’s journey is a testament to the power of dreams and determination. As a young girl, surrounded by the hum of sewing machines in her family’s shop, she discovered her calling. With each stitch and design, she wove not just clothes, but hope for a brighter future. Her journey from designing school clothes for friends to creating her own fashion empire shows us that with passion, perseverance and belief in oneself, we can turn our wildest dreams into tangible success.
The Forty Collection, featuring four exclusive pieces and a limited-edition hat series, embodies the timeless elegance and cutting-edge design that defines the brand. Each garment in the collection is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and creativity, making a bold statement in contemporary fashion. “This collection is a personal tribute to the journey I’ve taken over the past forty years,” says Santia Mckoy, founder and designer of S&M Custom Design. “Every piece is infused with the passion and creativity that have shaped my brand, and I’m excited to share this milestone with the world.”
Each garment has an emotive story, all four uniting together simultaneously at the exact time they should have been. The silver dress is made from a custom- colored metallic fabric, symbolizing modernity and timelessness. Adorned with forty handcrafted roses, it carries a deeply personal significance for Santia.
“As someone who is passionate about roses, I find great meaning in creating these floral embellishments which represent the years of my life and my journey as a mother of three girls. My aim with this collection is to maintain a sense of elegance and empowerment that reflects my own story and experiences. I hope for it to become a signature piece for birthdays and anniversaries, adaptable to milestone ages with a floral arrangement that reflects the corresponding age.”
Behold the metallic gown, a shining beacon of female empowerment. This stunning creation doesn’t just clothe the body; it adorns the spirit of every woman who wears it. The delicate bow at the neckline and the graceful ruffled skirt are more than mere design elements – they’re a celebration of femininity in all its strength and beauty.
As part of a collection that honors the essence of womanhood, this gown stands as a testament to the power of embracing one’s true self. Let it inspire you to shine brightly, to stand tall, and to embrace your unique feminine energy.
The pink dress symbolizes Santia’s love and commitment to her husband Adrian, who encourages and supports her aspirations. She designed this couture gown as a representation of her upcoming vow renewal celebration. The dress features a shimmering fabric with captivating puff sleeves that creating a classic wedding dress from an earlier era. The front of the gown is adorned with a graceful pink bow that beautifully unifies the four sections of the dress.
The white dress exudes a regal presence, embodying the essence of a queen, her empire, and the realization of her aspirations. It exudes a sense of grandeur, its visual presence extending far beyond the initial perception. When paired with a cape, the dress assumes a majestic appearance. Upon the cape’s removal the dress undergoes a distinct transformation reflecting the time needed for a new era to unfold. Dresses can transform into three distinct looks: a practical look, a red carpet look and an elegant dinner look without the cape, each with three matching hats.
“My aspiration is for this collection to continue being an integral component of my brand, embodying creativity and couture. The collection marks a significant step in my personal and professional development as a designer, a deeply personal blend of my own identity and style.”
Fashion is more than just clothing; it’s an expression of who we are at any stage in life. Santia’s journey reminds us that our dreams, no matter how distant they may seem, have the potential to shape our reality. Designer Santia’s story is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance, creativity and self-belief. As she unveils her new designs, we’re witnessing the beautiful convergence of past aspirations and present achievements.
The Forty Collection will be available exclusively through S&M Custom Design’s official website. For more information visit SMCustomDesign.com
